If you have requested a Scan-to-BIM model or any BIM deliverable, you have probably seen the term “LOD.” Level of Development (LOD) is the industry’s shorthand for how much detail and reliability a BIM element contains—and it has a direct impact on what your model can be used for, how long it takes to build, and what it costs. Here is a plain-English guide.
What Does LOD (Level of Development) Mean?
Level of Development is a standardized framework—originated by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and maintained in detail by the BIMForum LOD Specification—that describes how complete and dependable a given element in a BIM model is. It answers a simple question for everyone using the model: how much can we trust this element’s geometry and information?
Level of Development vs. Level of Detail
LOD is often confused with “Level of Detail.” Level of Detail is about how much graphical information an element shows. Level of Development is about how reliable that information is—how far the element has progressed from a rough placeholder to a verified, real-world object. A model can look detailed yet still be low on development, which is exactly why the distinction matters.
The LOD Levels Explained
- LOD 100 – Conceptual: the element is represented symbolically, with no accurate geometry—useful for early massing and concept studies.
- LOD 200 – Approximate geometry: a generic placeholder with approximate size, shape, location, and orientation.
- LOD 300 – Precise geometry: accurate size, shape, location, and orientation. This is the common target for design and as-built documentation.
- LOD 350 – With interfaces: everything in LOD 300 plus how the element connects to and interfaces with other systems—essential for coordination and clash detection.
- LOD 400 – Fabrication: detailed enough for fabrication, assembly, and installation.
- LOD 500 – Field-verified as-built: elements verified on site for an accurate representation of what actually exists.
Which LOD Do You Need?
The right level depends on how the model will be used:
- Visualization and space planning: LOD 200 is usually enough.
- Design and renovation, and as-built records: LOD 300 provides reliable, accurate geometry.
- Coordination and clash detection: LOD 350 captures how systems interface.
- Prefabrication: LOD 400 supports shop drawings and fabrication.
- Facility management and record models: LOD 500, field-verified.
For most Scan-to-BIM projects, LOD 200 to 350 covers the need. If you are new to the underlying technology, our overview of what 3D laser scanning is is a helpful starting point.
How LOD Affects Scan-to-BIM Cost and Timeline
Higher LOD means more modeling effort, so it directly influences both price and schedule. This is why scoping LOD up front matters: paying for LOD 400 when LOD 300 would do adds unnecessary cost, while under-specifying leaves you with a model that cannot support the work. For more, see our breakdown of 3D scanning and modeling costs, and how accurate models help eliminate costly rework.
Getting the LOD Right for Your Project
The best outcomes start with a clear conversation about how the model will be used, so the LOD matches your goals—no more, no less. Contact our team to scope the right level of development for your next project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is LOD in BIM? LOD (Level of Development) is a standardized measure of how complete and reliable an element in a BIM model is, ranging from a conceptual placeholder (LOD 100) to a field-verified as-built element (LOD 500).
What LOD is typical for Scan-to-BIM? Most Scan-to-BIM projects fall between LOD 200 and LOD 350, depending on whether the model is intended for visualization, design, or coordination.
What is the difference between Level of Development and Level of Detail? Level of Detail describes how much graphical information an element shows, while Level of Development describes how reliable and complete that element actually is. A model can look detailed yet still be low on development.
